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A freshly baked sweet potato casserole topped with toasted marshmallows.

Orange Zest & Ginger Sweet Potato Bake

This harmonious sweet potato bake combines the earthy sweetness of sweet potatoes with the zesty brightness of orange and the spicy kick of ginger, all crowned with a crispy oat and candied ginger topping.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 50 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings 6 people

Equipment

  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • large pot
  • colander
  • potato masher or electric mixer
  • medium bowl

Ingredients
  

Sweet Potato Base

  • 2.5 lbs sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks about 4-5 medium
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/4 cup whole milk or half-and-half
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 Zest of 1 large orange
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar can be adjusted to taste

For the topping

  • 1/2 cup old-fashioned rolled oats
  • 1/4 cup chopped candied ginger
  • 1/4 cup packed light brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Place peeled and cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil.
  • Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes until sweet potatoes are very tender; drain thoroughly.

Mixing and Baking

  • Return drained sweet potatoes to the pot or a mixing bowl and add melted butter, milk, salt, pepper, ginger, orange zest, and 1/4 cup brown sugar.
  • Mash until smooth, then spread evenly into the prepared baking dish.
  • In a separate bowl, combine oats, candied ginger, 1/4 cup brown sugar, melted butter, and cinnamon for the topping.
  • Sprinkle the topping over the sweet potato mixture.
  • Bake for 25-35 minutes until the topping is golden brown and the casserole is bubbly.
  • Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, you can toast the oats lightly before adding them to the topping mixture. Adjust the amount of ginger and orange zest according to your preference. This dish is excellent for holidays or as a comforting side.